Colorado State University Pueblo Football will kick off the 2026 season ranked No. 6 in the Preseason AFCA Division II Coaches Poll. The ThunderWolves secured 581 points, closely trailing Minnesota State at No. 5 with 587 points, and ahead of Central Washington at No. 7 with 478 points. This marks the second straight year the Pack has been placed at No. 6. They were one of four Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference teams mentioned in the poll, indicating a competitive start to the season.

By the Numbers
  • CSU Pueblo ranks No. 6 with 581 points in the Preseason AFCA Coaches Poll.
  • Western Colorado is ranked No. 11 with 379 points, while Chadron State and Colorado School of Mines received 83 and 18 votes, respectively.
State of Play
  • CSU Pueblo ended the 2025 season ranked No. 11 after a 10-2 record.
  • The team returns 45 lettermen, including 10 starters, for the upcoming season.
  • The Pack's schedule includes games against four teams ranked or receiving votes in the preseason poll.
What's Next

CSU Pueblo will begin its season with a home game on August 27 against Central Missouri, aiming to build upon last season's win over the Mules. Upcoming matchups include a game against ranked opponent Western Colorado on November 14.

Bottom Line

CSU Pueblo is poised for a strong start to the season, with a solid roster and challenging schedule, reflecting their competitive aspirations and previous success in the conference.